Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo. FILE PHOTO / SUPREME COURT PIO
MANILA, Philippines — Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo on Wednesday reminded lawyers and other individuals attending online court proceedings to observe proper decorum after a government official was caught drinking alcohol during the virtual budget deliberations in the Senate.
“While the hearings are conducted via videoconferencing, we require the judges, court employees (and other) people appearing … to observe proper dress code and demeanor,” Gesmundo told reporters after leading the annual Philippine National Prayer Breakfast in San Juan City.
Brian Keith Hosaka, the high court’s spokesperson, said judges may admonish or even fine lawyers and other persons for violating the basic rules during the online hearings.